Police in Oyam District, under North Kyoga Region, have arrested one Amote Benard, an Assistant Engineering Officer with Oyam District Local Government, in connection with the alleged theft of a government motorcycle.
The suspect is currently detained at Oyam Central Police Station to assist with investigations.
Preliminary investigations indicate that on November 5, 2026, at approximately 4:00 PM, the District Police Commander (DPC) Oyam received information from the Office of the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) regarding a missing motorcycle belonging to the Youth Councilor of Oyam District Local Government.
The motorcycle had been handed over to the District Engineering Store on December 16, 2025, due to mechanical problems. However, the motorcycle was later discovered missing and was reportedly sighted parked at the home of Amote Benard in Telele B Cell, Omito Ward, Lira City West Division.
Before police could move to his home, the District Engineer, Okite George, who is the complainant, recorded a statement indicating that Amote Benard had arrived with the motorcycle, which was being transported in a vehicle.
When questioned, Amote Benard confirmed bringing the motorcycle from his home in Lira City. He claimed the motorcycle was sold to him during the boarding off of obsolete assets (public auctioning) of Oyam District Local Government in July 2026.
A team of police officers led by SGT Acio Patricia visited the district and confirmed that the motorcycle was indeed parked at the District Engineering Store.
Statements have been recorded from other relevant witnesses, and a case file for motorcycle theft has been registered at Oyam Central Police Station.
The motorcycle has been recovered and is being kept as an exhibit at the police station, while the suspect remains in custody pending further investigations.
SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, Public Relations Officer for North Kyoga Region and Acting PRO for Aswa West and Aswa East Regions, confirmed the arrest and urged the public to remain patient as investigations continue. He reiterated the police's commitment to combating theft of government property and called upon district officials to follow proper procedures during the disposal of obsolete assets.
